According to Ancient Origins, “Han purple is an artificial pigment created by the Chinese over 2,500 years ago, which was used in wall paintings and to decorate the famous terracotta warriors, as well as ceramics, metal ware, and jewelry. The pigment is a technological wonder, made through a complex process of grinding up raw materials in precise proportions and heating to incredible temperatures.”
Used as far as 800 BC, it was not used in art until the Qin and Han dynasties (221 BC – 220 AD), when it was applied to the world famous terracotta warriors, as well as ceramics and other items.
This Chinese purple is mysterious and wonderful. Read more on the color on Ancient Origins and to explore our natural dyes that create hues of purple, go here on Botanical Colors.
Image: Ancient Origins